Throwing the Ball Back
When I was a kid, one of the things I really loved was going outside and playing catch with my friends. Whenever one of us got a new ball we’d run out to the parking lot next to my house and toss the ball back and forth. Sometimes I’d catch it, sometimes I’d drop it, and sometimes I’d get tired go inside to take a break.
The same thing happens in business relationships.
When we meet a new business connection we may really get to like them and what they do. Then we may decide to make an introduction for them or pass them a referral. In this instance, we are throwing the ball. What happens after that is usually very telling.
Those who send us referrals and introductions and keep us top of mind are throwing the ball, which makes us want to throw the ball back to them and let the business flow.
Those who take the intros or referrals we make and do not keep us top of mind in return are taking their ball and going home, which can lead to feeling less inclined to send things their way in the future.
Now, I’m not suggesting that we should always expect a return immediately after we’re helped someone, but I am saying that those who take the time to show an interest in us are the ones who remain top of mind.
Today is a great day to look at your existing network and ask yourself who is throwing the ball back and who has taken their ball home. This information will help you decide where to invest your time and energy and it will give you a clear picture of who really cares about your success and who is just trying to get their hands on the ball.
Have fun playing catch.
Excelsior!
